Though he was making his first game visit to Ann Arbor, Carlsbad (Calif.) La Costa Canyon offensive line commit Erik Magnuson wasn't solely focused on the game. He had his mind set on improving Michigan's already-great 2012 recruiting class. Magnuson spent much of his visit talking to the Wolverines' official guests, Lakewood (Wash.) Lakes offensive lineman Zach Banner and Westlake Village (Calif.) Oaks Christian wide receiver Jordan Payton.

Magnuson built up relationships with both of the highly-touted prospects on the summer camp circuit, and was looking to use that influence to convince them to join the recruiting class. Neither committed to Michigan on the visit, but Magnuson believes he helped the Wolverine cause.

Magnuson's recruiting pitch was aided by an electric atmosphere inside Michigan Stadium. The first night crowd in stadium history witnessed an instant classic on the field, and made themselves heard throughout.

The fans were rewarded for their passion with a big Michigan win. Despite struggling through three quarters, 28 fourth-quarter points capped a 35-31 victory. Magnuson appreciated the perseverance of his future teammates, and attributes it to the personality of the head coach.

A San Diego-area native, Magnuson has known the Wolverines' new man in charge since Hoke's days as the Coach of San Diego State. They've built a relationship over the last three years, and that familiarity is part of the reason Magnuson chose Michigan.

Magnuson will get another chance to see his future head coach in person when he returns for his official visit later in the fall. He'll see Michigan take on Ohio State in The Game, and is looking forward to another chance to do some recruiting.

If his efforts with Payton and Banner helped Michigan land either of those prospects, the coaches will be glad to have him around for another big recruiting weekend.